Further strike planned by Care UK staff

Workers employed by Care UK in Doncaster were due to return to work this morning after their second seven day strike.

The Unison members, who care for some of the most vulnerable people in society, voted overwhelmingly to take two lots of week-long industrial action after claiming management have threatened to slash their wages by up to 50 per cent.

The strike came to a close with a rally at Doncaster Catholic Club.

However, in a secret ballot, members agreed to take a further seven days of action, details to be confirmed.

Unison regional manager Tony Pearson said: “Members overwheming voted in a secret ballot for a further seven days action.”

Unison regional organiser Jim Bell said: “These members have stood firm in the face of an unprecedented attack on their pay, threatening their financial survival.

“These dedicated carers are skilled, experienced and committed to the well-being of the people who depend on them or a decent quality of life.

“Yet Care UK wants to make massive cuts their already modest pay, increasing the firm’s profits while our members risk losing their homes.”

Care UK managers have expressed disappointment that Unison has chosen to announce plans for a third strike in the Doncaster learning disability service.

Director of Care UK’s learning disability service, Chris Hindle said: “As we’ve always said, we’re ready and waiting to hold further conciliation meetings with Unison using expertise from ACAS but the union doesn’t seem prepared to come to the table.”